earl

earl. A title of nobility, formerly the highest in England but now the third highest, ranking between a marquis and a viscount. • This title corresponds with the French comte and the German graf. Originating with the Saxons, this title is the most ancient of the English peerage. William the Conqueror first made the title hereditary, giving it in fee to his nobles. No territorial, private, or judicial rights now accompany the title; it merely confers nobility and a hereditary seat in the House of Lords.

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词条贡献者

双语律师李明，国际知名法学院法律专业，擅长翻译各类与政府监管相关的法律文件。